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Glossary

Dictionary of Software Development

A brief list of terms related to software development used by Engineering, Product, and Design teams.

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  • 301 Redirect

    A permanent redirect from one URL to another.  

  • 3D Rendering

    Creating three-dimensional images using software.   

  • 404 Error

    Page not found error message.  

  • A

  • Accessibility

    Ensuring web content is usable by people with disabilities.  

  • Addictive tech

    Technologies designed to engage users for extended periods, often leading to excessive use.

  • Adobe Firefly

    AI-powered platform for quick, efficient content creation.

  • Adversarial machine learning

    Techniques to create AI models that can resist malicious attacks.

  • Affective (emotional) computing

    Technology that can recognize and respond to human emotions.

  • Agent-based simulation

    Modeling complex systems using autonomous agents to simulate interactions and behaviors.

  • AGI research

    Research focused on creating Artificial General Intelligence, capable of performing any intellectual task that a human can.

  • Agile

    A flexible and iterative approach to software development emphasizing incremental delivery and collaboration.  

  • Agile Story

    A short description of a feature or functionality from an end user's perspective in Agile development.  

  • Agile Transformation

    The process of transitioning an organization to Agile methodologies and principles.  

  • Agility

    Ability to respond quickly and effectively to change.

  • AI agents

    Autonomous programs that perform tasks or simulate behaviors using artificial intelligence.

  • AI as a service

    Cloud-based AI services that provide businesses with AI capabilities without requiring in-house infrastructure.

  • AI in security

    The application of AI technologies to enhance cybersecurity measures.

  • AI safety and regulation

    Policies and practices to ensure the safe and ethical development of AI technologies.

  • AI-assisted software development

    The use of AI tools to enhance and automate aspects of software development.

  • AI-generated media

    Content such as images, videos, and text created using AI algorithms.

  • AI, IoT and XR combined solutions

    Integrated solutions leveraging AI, Internet of Things, and Extended Reality technologies.

  • AI/ML on edge

    Deploying AI and machine learning models directly on edge devices rather than centralized servers.

  • AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML)

    A technique for updating web content without reloading the page.  

  • Alignment

    The arrangement of text or elements to create a cohesive visual layout.  

  • Alternative currencies

    Digital or virtual currencies that function as alternatives to traditional currencies.

  • Analogous Colors

    Colors that are next to each other on the color wheel.  

  • API (Application Programming Interface)

    A set of protocols and tools for building software and applications.  

  • API Integration

    Connecting third-party services to a website.  

  • API Key

    A code used to authenticate and access APIs.  

  • App Inventor

    A visual programming environment for creating mobile applications.  

  • Application

    A program or group of programs designed for end-users.  

  • Array

    A data structure consisting of a collection of elements, each identified by an index or key.  

  • Artboard

    A virtual canvas within graphic design software where designs are created.  

  • Artifact

    Any file that is produced during the software development process.  

  • Artificial Intelligence

    Machines simulating human intelligence for automated tasks.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)

    Simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems.  

  • Ascender

    An upward part of a letter that extends above the x-height.  

  • Aspect Ratio

    The proportional relationship between an image's width and height.  

  • Asset Management

    Systematic approach to managing organizational assets.

  • Augmented Reality

    An enhanced version of reality where live, direct or indirect, views of physical real-world environments are augmented with superimposed computer-generated images.  

  • Authentication

    The process of verifying the identity of a user or system.  

  • Automated compliance

    The use of automation to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.

  • Automated workforce

    The use of robots and AI to perform tasks traditionally done by human workers.

  • AutoML

    Automated machine learning processes that simplify the creation of machine learning models.

  • Autonomous robots

    Robots capable of performing tasks independently without human intervention.

  • Autonomous vehicles

    Self-driving vehicles that operate without human input.

  • AWS

    Comprehensive cloud platform offering scalable computing, storage, and databases.

  • Azure

    Microsoft's cloud computing platform and services.

  • B

  • Back End

    The server-side of a web application, responsible for managing data within the database and serving that data to the front end.  

  • Backend

    Server-side development managing database and application logic.

  • Background

    The area behind the main content of a design.  

  • Backup

    The process of creating a copy of site data.  

  • Balance

    The distribution of visual weight in a design for stability.  

  • Bash

    Unix shell and command language.

  • Bash -c

    Command to execute Bash scripts from the command line.

  • Bash Script

    Script written for the Bash command language.

  • Bend Programming Language

    Innovative language simplifying complex computations.

  • Big Data

    Large volumes of data that can be analyzed for insights and decision-making.  

  • Bitmap

    Images made up of individual pixels, not scalable without quality loss.  

  • Black Box Testing

    Testing without knowledge of internal code structure.

  • Bleed

    Extra space beyond the document's edge to ensure images or colors extend to the paper's edge.  

  • Blockchain

    A decentralized digital ledger used to record transactions across multiple computers.  

  • Blue-Green Deployment

    Technique for reducing downtime during deployments.

  • Bootstrap

     A front-end framework for responsive web design.  

  • Bottom-up design

    An area of program refinement that starts with smaller modules and builds into a complete software program.   

  • Brain-computer interfaces

    Direct communication pathways between the brain and external devices.

  • Branch

    A copy of source code within a version control system.  

  • Brand Identity

    All elements that represent a company’s image to the public.  

  • Brandmark

    A visual depiction of a brand.  

  • BRD (Business Requirements Document)

    A document that details the business solution for a project including the documentation of customer needs and expectations.  

  • Breadcrumbs

     Navigational links to show the user's location on a website.  

  • Bug

    An error, flaw, or fault in a computer program that causes it to produce incorrect or unexpected results.  

  • Build

    The process of converting code into a standalone form that can be run on a computer.  

  • Business Process Reengineering

    A strategy for improving organizational efficiency by redesigning core business processes.  

  • C

  • C Sharp (C#)

    Modern, object-oriented programming language by Microsoft.

  • Cache

    A hardware or software component that stores data so future requests for that data can be served faster.  

  • Cassandra

    NoSQL database for handling large amounts of data.

  • Causal inference for ML

    Methods for determining cause-and-effect relationships in machine learning models.

  • CD (Continuous Deployment)

    A method to frequently deliver apps to customers by introducing automation into the stages of app development.  

  • CDN (Content Delivery Network)

     A network for fast content distribution.  

  • Centricity

    Focusing on a central element or user experience.

  • CI (Continuous Integration)

    The practice of building software when all working copies of code are merged into one branch.  

  • Clinical Research

    The study of health and illness in people, aimed at improving knowledge and treatment.  

  • Clipping Path

    A vector path used to isolate an object from its background.  

  • Cloud Computing

    The delivery of computing services over the internet, including storage, processing, and software.  

  • Cloud Fusion Center

    Hub for managing cloud operations and security.

  • Cloud Infrastructure

    Hardware and software that supports cloud computing.

  • Cloud Integration

    The process of configuring multiple cloud services to share data and processes.  

  • Cloud Migration

    Moving data and applications to cloud environments.

  • Cloud Security

    Protecting data and applications in cloud environments.

  • Cloud-Native Applications

    Applications designed for cloud environments.

  • CMS (Content Management System)

     Software to manage and publish web content.  

  • CMS Plugin

     Extensions to add features to a content management system.  

  • CMYK

    The color model used for print design, consisting of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks.  

  • Code of ethics for software

    Guidelines and principles to ensure ethical software development and usage.

  • Code Refactoring

    The process of editing code to reduce or eliminate technical debt.   

  • Collaboration ecosystems

    Platforms and tools that facilitate collaboration among diverse teams and organizations.

  • Color Palette

    A set of colors used consistently in a design to maintain visual harmony.  

  • Color Theory

    The logical structure for color that includes harmony between colors, the context of how colors are used, and the color wheel.  

  • Complementary Colors

    Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel.  

  • Composition

    The arrangement and organization of design elements within a layout.  

  • Conceptual Design

    The early stage of design focused on ideas and concepts.  

  • Concurrency

    The ability of different parts of a program to execute out-of-order or in partial order, without affecting the final outcome.  

  • Consumer XR

    Extended Reality technologies designed for consumer use, such as VR headsets and AR apps.

  • Continuous Integration

    Practice of merging code changes frequently.

  • Contrast

    The degree of difference between elements in a design, often used to create emphasis.  

  • Contrast Ratio

    The difference in brightness between foreground and background elements.  

  • Conversion rate

    A conversion rate is a business metric that shows how many people take a desired action.  

  • Cookies

     The data sent by an internet server to a browser.  

  • Copyright

    Legal protection for original creative works, including designs.  

  • Cosmos DB

    A globally distributed, multi-model database service designed for managing data at scale.  

  • Crawl

     Search engines send bots to gather intel on published web pages to determine what should be displayed or removed.  

  • CRM (Customer Relationship Management)

     The software and apps used to gather, analyze, and maintain information on prospects.  

  • Crop

    The removal of unwanted areas from an image to focus on a specific part.  

  • Crop Marks

    Lines indicating where a document will be trimmed after printing.  

  • Cross-Browser Compatibility

     Ensuring a website works on different browsers.  

  • Cross-selling

    Cross-selling is a sales technique that involves offering customers additional services or products related to the one(s) they’re already purchasing.  

  • CSS (Cascading Style Sheets)

    A language used to describe the style of HTML documents.  

  • Customer Experience

    Overall perception of a customer's interactions with a company.

  • Customer Experience (CX)

      The overall perception of a customer's interaction with a company or brand.  

  • Cyber Security

    Protecting systems and data from digital threats and attacks.

  • Cybersecurity

     Protecting websites from online threats.  

  • D

  • Data Analytics

    Process of examining data sets to draw conclusions about the information they contain.  

  • Data Bricks

    Unified analytics platform for big data and machine learning.

  • Data clean room

    Secure environments where data can be analyzed without exposing raw data to outside parties.

  • Data Cleaning

    The process of detecting and correcting (or removing) corrupt or inaccurate records from a dataset.  

  • Data contract

    Agreements that define the structure, quality, and access rights of data shared between parties.

  • Data Engineering

    The practice of designing and building systems for collecting, storing, and analyzing data.  

  • Data Infrastructure

    The underlying framework that supports the collection, storage, and management of data.  

  • Data Integration

    The process of combining data from different sources to provide a unified view.  

  • Data Labeling

    The process of tagging data with labels to make it usable for machine learning models.  

  • Data Management

    The practice of managing data as a valuable resource to unlock its potential for an organization.  

  • Data marketplaces

    Platforms where data providers and consumers can trade data assets.

  • Data mesh

    An approach to data management that treats data as a product and organizes it by domain.

  • Data Modeling

    The process of creating a data model to organize and structure data.  

  • Data product specification

    Detailed definitions of data products to ensure consistency and quality in data management.

  • Data scraping

    Data scraping (or web scraping) is the process of extracting information from online sources with the help of a special digital tool.    

  • Data Stack

    A combination of technologies and tools used to process and analyze data.  

  • Data Streaming

    The continuous flow of data at a high volume, often used for real-time processing.  

  • Data Structure

    A particular way of organizing and storing data in a computer so that it can be accessed and modified efficiently.  

  • Data Warehouse

    A system used for reporting and data analysis, storing current and historical data in one place.  

  • Database

      An organized collection of data generally stored and accessed electronically.  

  • DataRobot

    Automated machine learning platform for building models.

  • DDoS Attack

     Distributed Denial of Service attack to overwhelm a website.  

  • Debugging

    The process of finding and resolving bugs or defects in software.  

  • Decentralized data platforms

    Data platforms that operate without centralized control, often using blockchain technology.

  • Decentralized identity

    Identity management systems that allow users to control their own identity data without relying on central authorities.

  • Decentralized personal data stores

    Systems that allow individuals to store and manage their personal data independently.

  • Decentralized security

    Security measures that distribute control and decision-making to prevent centralized points of failure.

  • Decision science

    The application of quantitative techniques to inform decision-making processes.

  • Demand-based pricing

    Demand-based pricing is the revenue management strategy of rating products or services according to customer demand trends.  

  • Deployment

    The process of distributing a software application to be used.  

  • Developer experience platforms

    Tools and environments designed to enhance the productivity and satisfaction of software developers.

  • DevOps

    A set of practices that combines software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) to shorten the development lifecycle.  

  • DevSecOps

    Integrating security practices into the DevOps process to enhance software security.

  • Differential privacy

    Techniques that ensure the privacy of individual data points while allowing for aggregate data analysis.

  • Digital carbon management

    Technologies and practices for monitoring and reducing digital carbon footprints.

  • Digital Ecosystem

     The complex network of interconnected digital technologies and platforms.  

  • Digital ecosystems

    Interconnected digital platforms and services that work together to create value.

  • Digital humans

    AI-generated characters that can interact with humans in a lifelike manner.

  • Digital Maturity

    The extent to which an organization can use digital technologies to improve processes and outcomes.  

  • Digital Transformation

    The integration of digital technology into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how it operates and delivers value to customers.  

  • Digital twin

    A virtual replica of a physical object or system used for analysis and simulation.

  • Digital Twinning

    Creating virtual replicas of physical objects or systems.

  • Distributed energy resources

    Decentralized energy generation and storage systems, such as solar panels and batteries.

  • DNS (Domain Name System)

     Converts domain names into IP addresses.  

  • Docker

    A platform for developing, shipping, and running applications inside software containers.  

  • Domain-Driven Design

    Design approach focusing on complex domain logic.

  • DPI (Dots Per Inch)

    A measurement of image resolution, affecting print quality.  

  • Drop Shadow

    A visual effect that adds a shadow behind an element to create depth.  

  • E

  • E-commerce

    Online buying and selling of products or services.  

  • Easing access to Generative AI

    Efforts to make generative AI technologies more accessible to users and businesses.

  • Edge Computing

    Distributed computing paradigm that brings computation and data storage closer to the location where it is needed.  

  • EHR and EMR (Electronic Health Record and Electronic Medical Record)

    Digital versions of patients' paper charts and medical history.  

  • Embossing

    A process that raises a design above the surface for a tactile effect.  

  • Encrypted computation

    Performing computations on encrypted data to ensure privacy and security.

  • End User

    The individual that uses a particular product.  

  • Enterprise Architecture

    The organizational structure that defines the operation of an organization.  

  • Enterprise Software

    Software designed to serve the needs of an organization rather than individual users.  

  • Enterprise XR

    Extended Reality technologies designed for use in enterprise environments, such as virtual training and simulations.

  • ERP

    Software integrating and streamlining business processes into one system.

  • Ethical frameworks

    Structured guidelines for making ethical decisions in technology development and use.

  • ETL Developer

    A professional responsible for designing and creating the data warehousing process, which includes extraction, transformation, and loading of data.  

  • ETL Testing

    Testing the process of extracting, transforming, and loading data to ensure data integrity and performance.  

  • Event Driven

    A system that responds to an external event.  

  • Event Driven Language

    Designed to handle external events.   

  • Event-Driven Architecture

    Software design focused on responding to events.

  • Evolutionary architectures

    Architectures designed to evolve and adapt over time in response to changing requirements.

  • Executable Code

    Code that can be run independently without translation.  

  • Explainable AI

    AI systems designed to provide understandable and transparent explanations of their decisions.

  • ExpressJS

    Minimalist web framework for Node.js.

  • F

  • Feathering

    Blending or softening the edges of an image or object.  

  • Federated learning

    A machine learning approach where models are trained across multiple decentralized devices or servers.

  • File Format

    A layout or extension of a file. Popular file formats are JPEG, TIFF, PNG, and GIF.   

  • Fine-grained data access controls

    Detailed and specific permissions for accessing different parts of a dataset.

  • FinOps

    Financial operations practices that optimize cloud spending and financial management.

  • Firewall

     A system to protect a secure network from an unsecured network.  

  • Flat Design

    A minimalistic design approach.  

  • Font

    A specific typeface or style of text used in design.  

  • Framework

    A platform for developing software applications that provides a foundation structure.  

  • Framework Agnostic

    Compatibility with multiple development frameworks.  

  • Frameworks

    Predefined structures to simplify software development.

  • Front End

    The part of a website or application that users interact with directly.  

  • Frontend Framework

    Tools for building user interfaces.  

  • FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

     A protocol for transferring files to a server.  

  • Full Stack

    A software developer that can work on the frontend and backend.   

  • Functional Programming

    Paradigm focused on functions and immutability.

  • Functional Requirements

    Specifications of functions that a system or component must be able to perform.  

  • Functional Testing

    Testing software against functional requirements.

  • G

  • GenAI tools in IDEs

    Generative AI tools integrated into Integrated Development Environments to assist developers.

  • Generative AI

    AI technologies that create new content, such as text, images, or music, from scratch.

  • Gesture recognition

    Technology that interprets human gestures to control devices or interact with systems.

  • Git

    A distributed version control system used for tracking changes in source code.  

  • GitFlow

    Branching model for managing Git projects.

  • GitHub

    A web-based hosting service for version control using Git.  

  • Golang

    Open-source programming language by Google.

  • Gradient

    A gradual transition between two or more colors.  

  • GraphQL

    Query language for APIs, allowing for flexible data retrieval.

  • Green cloud

    Cloud computing practices that aim to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.

  • Green software engineering

    Software development practices that focus on reducing environmental impact.

  • Green UX

    User experience design practices that prioritize sustainability and environmental impact.

  • Grid System

    A framework of horizontal and vertical lines used for layout consistency.  

  • Gutter

      The space between columns or pages in a layout.  

  • H

  • Hadoop

    Open-source framework for big data processing and storage.

  • HIPAA Compliance

    Adherence to the regulations and standards set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act for protecting sensitive patient data.  

  • Hosting

     Storing and serving web files on a server.   

  • HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)

     The standard language for web pages.  

  • HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)

    The foundation of data communication for the World Wide Web.  

  • Hue

    The attribute of color that distinguishes one from another.  

  • Hybrid Cloud

    Combination of private and public cloud services.

  • I

  • Icon

    A simplified graphical representation of an object or concept.  

  • IDE (Integrated Development Environment)

    A software application that provides comprehensive facilities to computer programmers for software development.  

  • Illustration

    Hand-drawn or digital artwork used in design.  

  • Image Recognition

    The ability of a software system to identify objects, places, people, or actions in images.  

  • Increased regulation

    The growing trend of governments imposing more regulations on technology companies and practices.

  • Industrial XR

    Extended Reality technologies applied in industrial settings, such as manufacturing and maintenance.

  • Infographic

    A visual representation of data or information.  

  • Integrated data and AI platforms

    Platforms that combine data management and AI capabilities for streamlined workflows.

  • Integration Testing

    Testing combined modules as a group.

  • Intelligent machine-to-machine collaboration

    Systems where machines communicate and work together autonomously.

  • Interface

    In computing, a shared boundary across which two separate components of a computer system exchange information.  

  • International law for crypto assets

    Legal frameworks governing the use and exchange of cryptocurrencies across different countries.

  • Interoperability

    Ability of systems to work together seamlessly.

  • inVision

    A design collaboration and prototyping platform.

  • IoT (Internet of Things)

    The network of physical objects embedded with sensors and connectivity to exchange data.  

  • Iteration

    A single cycle in a process aimed at achieving a goal, often used in agile and iterative development methodologies.  

  • J

  • JavaScript

     A programming language for interactive web elements.  

  • Jenkins

    An open-source automation server that helps automate the parts of software development related to building, testing, and deploying.  

  • JS Express

    Express framework tailored for JavaScript developers.

  • JUnit

    Unit testing framework for Java programming language.

  • K

  • Kanban

     An approach for managing software development that depicts all planned work to optimize the overall process.   

  • Kerning

    Adjusting the space between individual characters in a font.  

  • Knowledge Graph

    A network of entities and their relationships, used to integrate and access information.  

  • Knowledge graphs

    Data structures that represent relationships between concepts and entities, used for organizing and retrieving information.

  • Kubernetes

    An open-source platform for automating deployment, scaling, and operations of application containers.  

  • L

  • LAMP Stack

     A software bundle for web development (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP).  

  • Landing Page

     A web page designed for specific user actions.  

  • Langchain

    Framework for developing AI applications using large language models.

  • Layout

    The arrangement of text and graphics on a page or screen.  

  • Lazy Loading

    Technique for deferring the loading of resources.

  • Leading

    The vertical space between lines of text in a paragraph.  

  • Lean Startup

    A methodology for developing businesses and products based on validated learning and rapid iteration.  

  • Library

     A collection of non-volatile resources used by computer programs, often for software development.  

  • Lift and Shift

    The process of migrating applications and associated data to a cloud environment without redesigning the app.  

  • Line Art

    Images composed of lines, often used in logos or illustrations.  

  • Load Time

     The time it takes for a web page to fully load.  

  • Low Code

    Development approach with minimal hand-coding.

  • M

  • Machine Learning

    A subset of AI involving the use of algorithms and statistical models to enable computers to improve tasks.  

  • Maintenance

    A set of actions after the launch of a website to maintain the product.  

  • Malware

    Malicious software that can harm websites.  

  • Managed Security Services

    Outsourced security services for organizations.

  • MedTech

    Technology for medical and healthcare applications.

  • MES (Manufacturing Execution System)

    A system used to manage and monitor work-in-process on the factory floor.  

  • Metadata

     Structured reference data that sorts attributes of specific information.  

  • Metaverse

    Virtual reality space for interacting in a digital environment.

  • Methodology

    A technique that enables the design and development of software to be implemented.   

  • Microservices

    An architectural style that structures an application as a collection of loosely coupled services.  

  • Middleware

     Software that acts as a bridge between an operating system or database and applications, especially on a network.  

  • Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

    A product with enough features to satisfy early adopters and provide feedback for future development.  

  • MLOps

    Practices that combine machine learning, development, and operations to streamline the deployment and maintenance of ML models.

  • Mobility

    The ability to access information and services anywhere, anytime, on any device.  

  • Mockup

    A visual representation of a design, often used for presentation or testing.  

  • Modernization

    The process of adapting something to modern needs or habits, typically by updating systems, processes, and technology.  

  • Module

     A separate unit of software or hardware.  

  • Monochrome

    A design or image that uses shades of a single color.  

  • Monolithic

    Single-tiered software architecture tightly integrated.

  • Monospace

    A font where letters and characters occupy the same amount of horizontal space.  

  • Multimedia

    Design that includes a combination of text, graphics, audio, and video.  

  • Multimodal AI

    AI systems that can process and understand multiple types of data, such as text, images, and audio.

  • MVC (Model-View-Controller)

    A software architectural pattern.  

  • MySQL

     An open-source relational database management system.  

  • N

  • Natural language processing

    The field of AI focused on enabling machines to understand and process human language.

  • Navigation Menu

     Links for website navigation.  

  • Nest.js

    Progressive framework for building efficient Node.js applications.

  • Next-generation cryptography

    Advanced cryptographic techniques designed to enhance security and privacy.

  • Node.js

    An open-source, cross-platform JavaScript runtime environment.  

  • NoSQL

    Non-relational databases for handling unstructured data.

  • O

  • OAuth

    A protocol for secure authorization.  

  • Object Oriented Programming

    Programming paradigm based on objects and classes.

  • Observability

    The ability to measure and understand the internal state of a system based on the data it produces.  

  • Omnichannel

    An integrated approach to sales and marketing that provides customers with seamless experience across multiple channels.  

  • Online machine learning

    Machine learning methods that process data and update models in real time as new data arrives.

  • Opacity

    The degree of transparency or translucency in an element.  

  • Open Source

    Software with source code that anyone can inspect, modify, and enhance.  

  • Operationalize AI

    The process of deploying and integrating AI models into business operations and workflows.

  • Overhaul

    Comprehensive examination and improvement of a system.

  • Overlay

    A semi-transparent layer placed on top of an image or element.  

  • P

  • Pantone

    A standardized color matching system used in printing.  

  • Paradigm Shift

    Fundamental change in underlying assumptions or practices.

  • Parameter

    A special kind of variable, used in a subroutine to refer to one of the pieces of data provided as input to the subroutine.  

  • Pay-per-click (PPC)

    An online advertising model where advertisers pay a fee each time a user clicks on their ad.    

  • Penetration Testing

    A simulated cyberattack on a system to evaluate its security.  

  • Performance Testing

    Assessing system performance under specific conditions.

  • Personal information economy

    An economy where individuals control and monetize their personal data.

  • Personalized healthcare

    Tailoring medical treatment and care to individual patient characteristics and needs using data and technology.

  • Pipeline

     A set of data processing elements connected in series.  

  • Pixel

    The smallest unit of digital image representation.  

  • PL/SQL

    Oracle's procedural language extension for SQL.

  • Platform as a Service (PaaS)

    A cloud computing model providing a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications.  

  • Platforms as products

    Treating digital platforms as standalone products with their own value propositions and user experiences.

  • Plugin

    An add-on that adds new functionalities to a host program or software without alternating the host itself.   

  • Plugin Development

     Creating custom website extensions.  

  • POC (Proof of Concept)

    A demonstration to verify that certain concepts or theories have the potential for real-world application.  

  • PostgreSQL

    Open-source relational database management system.

  • PPI (Pixels Per Inch)

    A measurement of image resolution for digital displays.  

  • Predictive Analytics

    Techniques using data, statistical algorithms, and machine learning to identify the likelihood of future outcomes.  

  • Print Ready

    A design file prepared for high-quality printing.  

  • Privacy first

    Approaches and practices that prioritize user privacy in the design and operation of technologies.

  • Privacy-aware communication

    Communication systems that prioritize and protect user privacy.

  • Privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs)

    Technologies designed to protect user privacy while enabling data usage and analysis.

  • Privacy-respecting computation

    Methods for performing computations on data while preserving the privacy of individual data points.

  • Procedure

    A set of coded instructions that tell a computer how to run a program or calculation.  

  • Product Discovery

    The process of identifying and validating product ideas through user research and testing.  

  • Product Roadmap

    A strategic plan that outlines the vision, direction, priorities, and progress of a product over time.   

  • Production immune systems

    Automated systems that detect and respond to anomalies in production environments to maintain stability and security.

  • Programming Language

     A formal language comprising a set of instructions that produce various kinds of output.  

  • Progressive Web Apps

    Web applications that use modern web capabilities to deliver an app-like experience to users.  

  • Prompt Engineering

    Designing effective prompts for AI models.

  • Prototype

    An early sample or model of a product to test a concept or process.  

  • Pull Request

    A notification given by developers when they’re done building a feature.   

  • Q

  • QA (Quality Assurance)

     The process of reviewing a software product to ensure it meets expectations.  

  • QA Automation

    The use of automated testing tools to execute tests on software applications to ensure they meet specified requirements.  

  • Quality Control

    Ensuring products meet specified quality standards.

  • Quantum AI

    AI utilizing quantum computing for complex problem-solving.

  • Quantum computing

    Advanced computing technology that uses quantum mechanics principles to perform complex calculations faster than classical computers.

  • Quantum machine learning

    The application of quantum computing to enhance machine learning algorithms and processes.

  • Query

     A request for data or information from a database.  

  • R

  • RAG (Retrieval augmented generation)

    AI techniques that combine information retrieval with content generation to improve accuracy and relevance.

  • Rasterize

      Converting vector graphics into pixel-based images.  

  • Re-decentralization

    The movement towards decentralizing control and decision-making in technology systems and platforms.

  • ReactJS

    JavaScript library for building user interfaces.

  • Recursion

    The process of defining a function or calculating a number by the repeated application of an algorithm.  

  • Redirect

    Forwarding one URL to another.  

  • Redux

    State management library for JavaScript applications.

  • Regression Testing

    Verifying that changes haven't introduced new issues.

  • Repository

    A central place where data is stored and managed.  

  • Resolution

    The clarity and sharpness of an image or display.  

  • Responsible tech facilitation

    Efforts to promote the ethical and responsible development and use of technology.

  • Responsive Design

    Design that adapts to different screen sizes and devices.  

  • REST (Representational State Transfer)

    An architectural style for designing networked applications.  

  • REST API

    Representational State Transfer for web services.  

  • Retina resolution XR

    Extended Reality displays with resolutions comparable to the human retina, providing highly detailed visuals.

  • Revenue management

    Revenue management is a set of practices or techniques that consider consumer demand and set the optimal price for the product.  

  • RGB

    The color model used for digital design, consisting of red, green, and blue.  

  • Robotic process automation and low code

    Automating business processes using robots and low-code development platforms.

  • Ruby on Rails

    Web application framework written in Ruby programming language.

  • Rule of Thirds

    A compositional technique that divides an object or frame into an equal, three-by-three grid with two horizontal and vertical lines.  

  • Runtime

    The period during which a computer program is executing.  

  • S

  • SaaS (Software as a Service)

     A software distribution model in which a third-party provider hosts applications and makes them available to customers over the Internet.  

  • Sanity Testing

    A subset of regression testing to verify that a particular function or bug is working as expected.  

  • Satellite networks

    Networks of satellites used for communication, navigation, and data collection.

  • Saturation

    The intensity or richness of a color.  

  • Scalability

    The ability to resize an image or design without loss of quality.  

  • Schema

     The structure of a database system, described in a formal language.  

  • Schema Markup

     The code that can be used on a website to help search engines deliver more information to users.  

  • Script Font

    A typeface that mimics handwritten script or calligraphy.  

  • Scripting

    Writing small programs to automate tasks.

  • Scrum

     A project management methodology for effective team collaboration that’s based on Agile software development.  

  • SDK (Software Development Kit)

    A collection of software tools and libraries that developers use to create applications for specific platforms.  

  • SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle)

    The general process of software development that follows a series of steps until completion.   

  • Secure software delivery

    Practices and tools to ensure the secure development and deployment of software applications.

  • Security

     The state of being free from danger or threat in a computing context.  

  • Selenium

    Automated testing tool for web applications.

  • Sequel

    SQL-based command for querying databases.

  • Server

     A computer or system that provides resources, data, services, or programs to other computers, known as clients, over a network.  

  • Serverless Architecture

     Cloud-based, scalable web hosting.  

  • Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA)

    A style of software design where services are provided to the other components by application components, through a communication protocol over a network.  

  • Sitemap

    An outline of all pages on a website.  

  • Sketch

    A rough or preliminary drawing or design.  

  • Smart cities

    Urban areas that use technology and data to improve infrastructure, services, and quality of life.

  • Smart energy management systems

    Systems that optimize energy use and efficiency in buildings and infrastructure.

  • Smart homes

    Homes equipped with connected devices and systems that automate and enhance daily living.

  • Smart systems and ecosystems

    Interconnected systems and devices that use data and intelligence to optimize performance and interactions.

  • Smoke Testing

    Preliminary testing to check basic functionality.

  • SOAP APIs

    Simple Objects Access Protocol is a web communication protocol for exchanging structured information in a decentralized, distributed environment.  

  • Software Architecture

    The high-level structure of a software system, defining its components and their interactions.  

  • Software Process

    A set of activities, methods, practices, and transformations used to develop and maintain software.  

  • Software Testing

    Process of evaluating software for errors and bugs.

  • Software-defined vehicles

    Vehicles that rely on software to control and manage their functions and features.

  • Solidity Language

    Programming language for developing Ethereum smart contracts.

  • Source Code

     The fundamental component of a computer program created by a programmer.  

  • Spatial audio

    Audio technology that creates a three-dimensional sound experience for listeners.

  • Split Testing

    A method of comparing two versions of a webpage or app against each other to determine which one performs better.  

  • Springboard

    Launching point for further development or progress.

  • Sprint

    A set period during which specific work must be completed and made ready for review in Agile development. 

  • SQL

    Structured Query Language for managing relational databases.

  • SQL (Structured Query Language)

     A domain-specific language used in programming and designed for managing data held in a relational database management system.  

  • SRS (Software Requirements Specification)

    A document that describes what the software will do and how it will be expected to perform.  

  • SSH (Secure Shell)

     A cryptographic network protocol for operating network services securely over an unsecured network.  

  • SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)

    Encryption protocol for web security.  

  • Stable Diffusion

    Process for gradually introducing changes into a system.

  • Staging Site

    A platform containing the exact copy of the site used for testing and debugging.  

  • Storyboard

    A sequence of sketches or images used to plan a visual narrative.  

  • Structured vs Unstructured Data

    Structured data is highly organized and easily searchable; unstructured data lacks a pre-defined format or organization.  

  • Supply Chain

    Network involved in producing and delivering products.

  • System Integration

    The process of linking different computing systems and software applications physically or functionally.  

  • System Software

     Software designed to provide a platform for other software.  

  • Systems Integration

    The process of linking together different computing systems and software applications physically or functionally.  

  • T

  • Tech Debt

    Accumulation of suboptimal code requiring future rework.

  • Tech Stack

    The combination of programming languages, tools, and frameworks used in software development.  

  • Technology and sovereign power

    The relationship between technological advancements and national sovereignty and power.

  • Technology for circular economy

    Technologies that support the circular economy by promoting reuse, recycling, and sustainability.

  • Template

    The layout and design of the platform that can be replicated.  

  • TensorFlow

    Open-source platform for machine learning.

  • Test Case

     A set of conditions under which a tester will determine whether a software application or system is working correctly.  

  • Texture

    The surface quality or feel of an element in a design.  

  • Thumbnail

    A small, low-resolution preview of an image or design.  

  • Tint

    The shade of color that is created when white is added to lighten the hue.  

  • Touchless interactions

    User interfaces that allow interaction without physical contact, often using gestures or voice commands.

  • Trunk-Based Development

    Development practice with a single shared branch.

  • Trustworthy data

    Data that is accurate, reliable, and secure, ensuring confidence in its use.

  • TypeScript

    Typed superset of JavaScript enhancing code quality.

  • Typography

    The art and technique of arranging type in a visually appealing way.  

  • U

  • UAT (User Acceptance Testing)

    The process of verifying that a software solution works for the user.  

  • Ubiquitous connectivity

    The widespread availability of network connections, enabling seamless communication and data exchange.

  • UI (User Interface) Design

      Designing the visual elements of software or websites  

  • UI/UX (User Interface/User Experience)

    Designing user-friendly interfaces.  

  • Understandable consent

    Clear and transparent mechanisms for obtaining user consent for data collection and usage.

  • Unit Test

    Testing individual components of a software application.

  • Unity

    Game development platform for creating 2D and 3D games.

  • Unreal Engine

    Tool for creating high-quality games and interactive 3D experiences.

  • Uptime

    Percentage of time a website is available.  

  • URL (Uniform Resource Locator)

    Web address for accessing content.  

  • Usability

    The ease with which users can navigate a website.  

  • Usability Testing

    Evaluating user experience.  

  • User Flow

    Path users take through a website.  

  • User Stories

    Simple descriptions of a feature from the perspective of the end user or customer.  

  • User-Centered Design (UCD)

    A design process that focuses on usability and user needs at every stage.  

  • UX Research

    Gathering user feedback and insights.  

  • V

  • Validation

    Ensuring software meets requirements and specifications.

  • Vector

    Graphics created using mathematical equations, scalable without loss of quality.  

  • Vector databases

    Databases optimized for storing and querying high-dimensional data, often used in AI and machine learning.

  • Verification

    Checking that software correctly implements specified functions.

  • Version Control

    A system that records changes to a file or set of files over time so that you can recall specific versions later.  

  • Virtual Reality (VR)

    Simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way.  

  • Visual Hierarchy

    The arrangement of elements to guide the viewer's attention.   

  • Visual Identity

    The overall look and feel of a brand's design elements.  

  • W

  • Watermark

    A semi-transparent mark or logo placed on an image for copyright protection.  

  • Web 3.0

    Decentralized web with enhanced data privacy and user control.

  • Web Application

    An application program stored on a remote server and delivered over the Internet through a browser interface.  

  • Web Security

    The practice of protecting websites and web applications from cyber threats.  

  • Web Server Configuration

    Customizing server settings.  

  • Web Services

     Software systems designed to support interoperable machine-to-machine interaction over a network.  

  • Website Architecture

    Structure and organization of a website.  

  • Website Maintenance

    Ongoing updates and improvements.  

  • Website Migration

    Moving a website to a new host or platform.  

  • White label app

      A fully customizable application developed by one company that other companies can rebrand and resell as their own. 

  • White Space

    The empty or unmarked areas in a design, used for balance and clarity.  

  • Widget

     A component of a graphical user interface (GUI) that displays information or provides a specific way for a user to interact with the operating system or an application.  

  • Wireframe

    A simplified, non-graphic representation of a web page or interface.  

  • Wireframing Tool

    Software for creating wireframes.  

  • X

  • X-height

    The height of lowercase letters in a font.  

  • Xamarin

    Framework for building cross-platform mobile applications.

  • XML (eXtensible Markup Language)

    A data format for structured content.  

  • XR-enabled hybrid working

    Using Extended Reality technologies to facilitate remote and hybrid work environments.

  • Y

  • Y-axis

    The vertical line in a coordinate system used for positioning elements.  

  • YAML

     A human-readable data format for storing and transmitting information  

  • YAML Validator

    Tool for checking the syntax of YAML files.

  • Z

  • Z-axis

    The depth or three-dimensional aspect of a design.  

  • Zero knowledge proofs

    Cryptographic methods that allow one party to prove to another that a statement is true without revealing any additional information.

  • Zoom

    Enlarging or reducing the view of a design or image.